The Accurate Assessment of Muscle Excitation Requires the Detection of Multiple Surface Electromyograms

When sampling electromyograms (EMGs) with one pair of electrodes, it seems implicitly assumed the detected signal reflects the net muscle excitation. However, this assumption is discredited by observations of local muscle excitation. Therefore, we hypothesize that the accurate assessment of muscle excitation requires multiple EMG detection and consideration of electrode-fiber alignment. We advise prudence when drawing inferences from individually collected EMGs.

Automated summary

When sampling EMGs with one pair of electrodes, it is not sufficient to assume that the detected signal reflects the net muscle excitation. Multiple EMG detections and consideration of electrode-fiber alignment are necessary for accurate assessment of muscle excitation. It is advisable to exercise caution when drawing inferences from individually collected EMGs.